Ask a doctor - Can cleft lip be detected during pregnancy?

Q. Can cleft lip be detected during pregnancy?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Cleft lip can often be detected during pregnancy through various prenatal screening and diagnostic methods. While not all cases are identified before birth, some screening procedures can provide information that raises suspicion of a cleft lip, prompting further evaluation. Here are some ways in which cleft lip can be detected during pregnancy:

1. Ultrasound Imaging: During routine prenatal ultrasounds, healthcare providers can visualize the developing fetus and assess the anatomy, including the face. Ultrasound may reveal a gap or opening in the upper lip, indicating the presence of a cleft lip. However, the detection rate can vary, and not all cases are identified through ultrasound.

2. 3D/4D Ultrasound: Advanced ultrasound technology, such as 3D or 4D ultrasound, may provide clearer images of the fetal face, allowing for a more detailed examination of facial structures, including the lips.

3. Prenatal Genetic Testing: In some cases, prenatal genetic testing, such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis, may be performed for other reasons, but these tests can also provide information about genetic conditions, including syndromes associated with cleft lip and palate.

It's important to note that while ultrasound and other prenatal screening methods can provide valuable information, they are not perfect, and a definitive diagnosis of cleft lip may require further evaluation after birth. Additionally, not all cases of cleft lip are identified prenatally.

If a cleft lip is suspected or detected during pregnancy, healthcare providers can offer counseling and information about the condition, potential associated factors, and available treatment options. This information can help parents make informed decisions about the management of the condition before and after birth.